Ralph Lauren adds Apple and Qurate Retail execs to Board

By

Cassidy Mantor

Published
May 9, 2018

Ralph Lauren Corporation has announced its plans to add two new directors to its Board, Apple's Angela Ahrendts and Qurate Retail Inc.'s Michael George, bringing the total number of directors to 13.

Ahrendts has been the senior vice president of retail at Apple Inc. for the past four years. She oversees the strategy, real estate and operations of Apple's physical stores, its online store and contact centers.

Prior to Apple, she was CEO of Burberry and a director on their Board for 8 years. Earlier in her career she was EVP at Liz Claiborne Inc. and President of Donna Karan International.

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George was named President and CEO of Qurate Retail this year, leading brands that include QVC, HSN and Zulily. Before this he was President and CEO of QVC for the past 12 years.

His experience includes leadership at Dell, Inc., and McKinsey & Company. He also serves on the boards for Qurate and the National Retail Federation among other companies and organizations.

Commenting on the appointments in a statement, Ralph Lauren, executive chairman and chief creative officer said, "Their counsel will be incredibly valuable as we continue to build the future for our iconic brand,” noting that Ahrendts brings expertise in luxury retail and innovation, while George's experience focuses on consumer engagement and growth.

Patrice Louvet, president and CEO of Ralph Lauren said that the label "will benefit greatly from their experience and fresh perspective as we continue to elevate our brand; evolve our product, marketing and shopping experience; expand our digital and international presence; and increase productivity.”

George has been appointed to Ralph Lauren's Board of Directors effective May 9. The Board intends to nominate Ahrendts for election at its Annual Meeting of Stockholders this August.